Google has humorously addressed claims that the new iPhone 17 camera bar borrows from its Pixel lineup. As renders suggest a horizontal camera bar on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, discussions about “Pixel envy” among iPhone users have surged. However, these new iPhone designs do not closely resemble the camera configuration of any Pixel model, and even imaginative comparisons fall short.
In response to the chatter, Google unveiled a new advertisement as part of its #BestPhonesForever series. This ad uses stop-motion animation to depict a whimsical friendship between the Pixel and iPhone. Fans of both devices appreciate the charm of these ads, which suggest that the iPhone lacks certain features that Pixel possesses.
Notably, the iPhone character is portrayed as somewhat naive, while Pixel plays the role of an all-knowing companion. Titled “Responding to the Rumors,” the ad features the two devices hosting a podcast. They delve into rumors surrounding the iPhone 17’s redesign.
At one point, a headline appears claiming that iPhone 17 leaks resemble Google Pixel designs. This prompts iPhone to jokingly wonder if it would mirror Pixel after years of following its innovations. The conversation then touches on Google’s introduction of Night Sight in 2018, which was followed by Apple’s adoption of Night Mode a year later.
They also discuss Pixel’s Magic Eraser feature from 2021, which Apple emulated with its Clean Up feature. Lastly, the pair talk about the introduction of widgets in iOS following their earlier availability on the first Pixel in 2016. Overall, while comparisons between the iPhone’s design and Pixel’s features may seem exaggerated, Google effectively highlights its innovations that Apple has integrated into newer iPhone models.